Dated: 9th November 2021
Imagine this- your pediatric ophthalmologist has informed you that your child has a refractive error and will need glasses to see clearly. Once the parents come to terms with this new development in their kid’s life, one of their biggest dilemmas is how to choose a correct frame for their child. The process may seem complicated but with our 5-point framework, it will be as easy as a child’s play.
Let’s try and understand the benefits of an ill-fitting frame first. There are none. But there are many disadvantages. For starters, you may have seen many kids who keep looking above their glasses while focusing at distance, making the glass virtually useless. And if the frame is crooked or tilted, it may not only blur the vision but may also produce asthenopic complaints, like eye fatigue and headache. This is because, since the refraction in your glasses lens changes depending on where you see through it, crooked lenses change your effective focal plane (and glass prescription) to some degree (to be a little more technical).
I hope it is clear that a child must always wear eye glasses that are not only ‘cool- looking’ but also are of right fit.
Temple- Should not be too tight that it causes uncomfortable pressure. It should however fit snugly behind the ear. A cheaper option to adjust the temple of the frame is using an ear hook, which is made of silicone and is friendly to your child’s skin.
Hinges- Spring hinges are robust and it allows the frame to last longer as kids aren’t careful while putting on and removing their glasses.
Nose bridge- Children do not have a well-developed nasal bridge, so the frame with a larger contact surface allows the weight of the spectacle to distribute evenly. Avoid nose pads as they tend to leave mark on the skin from constant pressure.
If money is a constraint, glass lenses are also fine (they are heavier and can break easily); but, if possible, prefer polycarbonate lenses. Children do not need any type of special coating, be it blue filter or photochromic lenses. Keep it plain and simple.
Tip: it is a good idea to keep a spare pair of glasses, especially if your kid has a high number. This is because making a new pair of glasses may take a couple of days sometimes.
To conclude, remember to choose Correct Size For Me Too (2)- Color of frame, size of frame, Fit good, Material of frame and lens.
